THAI UNIVERSITY STUDENTS AND SOCIAL MEDIA: USING SOCIAL MEDIA TO EXPRESS AND LEARN ABOUT POLITICAL AND EDUCATIONAL TOPICS
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Abstract
This study investigates the popularity of social media in relation to learning and power, specifically in the areas of education and politics in Thai university students. This mixed-methods study shows that the majority of the 96 Thai students from Naresuan University surveyed do in fact post, comment, learn, and acquire both knowledge and allegiances based on what they see and read online. Students indicated a variety of social media behaviors and knowledge sharing that is important to consider in how and when students are learning. Descriptive surveys were used to find patterns and semi-structured interviews were utilized to gain a deeper understanding of results. This mixed-method study depicts how Thai students are using social media to discuss and learn about political and education topics.
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